Extra Pages: The Author's Odyssey-Chapter 9: The 5 Big City [Edited]

The bustling market, known as Crystal Plaza, hummed with activity as I navigated through the maze of stalls and vendors. The sweet scent of exotic spices mingled with the energetic chatter of merchants and shoppers, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Walking through the bustling market, I carried the G+ rank mana core I had obtained from the fearsome Curculus.

Its iridescent glow held the promise of a substantial reward, and I was determined to get the best deal for my hard-earned spoils.

"Hey there, young traveller!" the shopkeeper called out with a toothy grin as I approached his stall. "I see you've got something valuable there. Let me take a look, and I'll give you a fair price for it."

I raised an eyebrow, my instincts tingling at the eagerness in his voice. As he examined the mana core, his eyes widened, a glint of greed betraying his fa?ade of impartiality.

"Hmm, yes, quite the find," he mused, stroking his chin. "I can offer you 300C for it. A generous offer, considering the rarity."

I fought back a chuckle, maintaining a calm fa?ade. This shopkeeper thought he could pull a fast one on me. Unbeknownst to him, I was the mastermind behind the very world in which he operated.

I leaned in, my tone feigning innocence. "300C, you say? Well, that does sound fair, but I've heard from my sources that G+rank mana cores like this are fetching quite a price in the neighbouring towns. I believe the going rate is 1000C."

The shopkeeper's eyes widened, clearly taken aback by my audacity. "Nonsense! Whoever told you that was surely trying to trick you. I can assure you that 300C is the best you'll find in these parts."

I shook my head with a sigh, my eyes glinting mischievously. "You know, I may be young, but I'm no stranger to the ways of the market. I've been around a bit, and I've seen the fair deals. I'll make you a counteroffer. How about 5000C for the mana core, along with the G+ rank monster's claws and fangs?"

The shopkeeper's jaw practically dropped to the ground. He had not anticipated such a bold move from someone he considered a naive traveller.

"5000C? Are you mad? That's an outrageous sum!" he sputtered.

I shrugged nonchalantly. "Well, I do have three of these G+ rank mana cores, and the claws and fangs are in perfect condition. They're from Curculus, you know—the Muted Beast."

At the mention of Curculus, the shopkeeper's eyes widened even further. It was clear that my words had struck a chord.

The Muted Beast was notorious for its danger and rarity, and its name held weight even in this bustling marketplace.

The shopkeeper was left momentarily speechless, clearly caught off guard by my knowledge and boldness.

He hesitated, clearly torn between his desire for profit and the realization that he was dealing with a shrewd negotiator.

I leaned in, my voice dripping with faux sympathy. "You know, I could be persuaded to take my business elsewhere. I'm sure other shopkeepers would be more than happy to offer a fair price for my findings."

Sweat glistened on the shopkeeper's forehead as he weighed his options.

Finally, he let out a resigned sigh. "Fine, fine! You drive a hard bargain, young traveller. 5000C for the mana cores and the claws and fangs. But mark my words, you won't find a better deal in this entire market!"

With a satisfied smile, I handed over the mana cores and the accompanying items.

As the shopkeeper grumbled about my "lucky find," I couldn't help but feel a surge of amusement. Little did he know that his customer was none other than the architect of this world, a master of storytelling and manipulation.

I had played my role to perfection, and in the process, I had turned the tables on a scheming shopkeeper.

After a skilful negotiation, I left Crystal Plaza with a satisfied smile, credits clutched in my hand. Making my way to my sleek superbike, I unlocked my briefcase and securely stored the earnings. As I settled onto the bike's comfortable seat, I activated the integrated AI assistant, Aurelia.

"Set destination: Home," I instructed, watching as the bike seamlessly shifted into autopilot mode, smoothly navigating the bustling city streets.

Arriving home, I found both of my parents waiting for me, their expressions a mix of relief and concern. It had been six days since I left for my training, and their worry was palpable.

"Lucas! You're back!" my mother exclaimed, enveloping me in a tight hug.

"Hey, Mom," I replied with a grin, returning the embrace.

My father's stern expression softened as he clapped me on the back. "You had us worried, son. How was your training?"

I shared a nod with him, knowing that he was referring to more than just physical training. "It went well, Dad. I learned a lot and I'm ready for Nova Academy."

As we chatted, my younger sister burst into the room, her energy infectious. The worry lines on her face disappeared as she saw me.

"Big brother, you're back!" she exclaimed, running over and hugging my leg.

I laughed and ruffled her hair affectionately. "Hey there, kiddo. Missed me?"

Her eyes widened with mock indignation. "Of course, I did! Who else is going to play with me?"

As the evening wore on, we gathered around the dinner table, a sense of warmth and familiarity settling over us.

Conversations flowed naturally, filled with laughter and stories of our days apart.

I shared anecdotes of my training, emphasizing the physical challenges without revealing the true depth of my experiences.

My parents listened with keen interest, offering words of encouragement and pride.

Dinner continued in this fashion, each of us immersed in the simple joy of being together.

My sister animatedly recounted her adventures from the past week, her excitement contagious.

As we finished our meal, my father's gaze met mine, a mixture of pride and concern in his eyes. And in those moments he asked me a question.

"Lucas, do you know the 5 big cities of the Human continent and what their roles are?"

"Dad, why are you even asking me this?"

"Just answer it, Lucas, Tomorrow you will be gone for Nova and before that, I want to see if you know anything about our current situation at moments."

There was silence for a while, Seeing that he wanted an answer I did answer him.

"Fine Dad as you wish. The five-strong cities are strategically positioned across Etheria, forming a defensive line against the threats that emerge from the western dead land and the mysterious dungeons scattered throughout the continent."

As I spoke, the intrigue on my father's face deepened. I continued, "Each of these cities serves as a bastion of protection for the people, utilizing their military prowess to repel the monstrous incursions. Their strength lies not just in their walls and soldiers, but also in their unity with the able elves and wise dwarves who coexist alongside the humans."

Seeing conversation between me and Dad my mother added something, her curiosity evident. "And what makes these cities unique?"

I smiled, excited to share this aspect. "These cities house the most renowned academies, where young talents from all races gather to hone their skills. They are centres of knowledge, innovation, and cooperation. The scholars, magic practitioners, and warriors trained within their walls play pivotal roles in defending Etheria from the dangers that threaten to consume it."

"You're growing up, Lucas," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "I can see the determination in your eyes. Just remember, no matter where life takes you, we'll always be here for you."

I smiled warmly at him, feeling a surge of gratitude. "I know, Dad. And I appreciate that more than you know."

After dinner, my sister and I played a lively game, our laughter echoing through the house. As bedtime approached, I tucked her in, promising to share more stories and adventures in the days to come.

Finally settling into my room, I reflected on the day's events.

The familiar comfort of home surrounded me, and I found myself contemplating the intricate balance between my dual identities—Lucas DarkHeart, the Extra of my creation, and transmigrant navigating this fantastical world.

Before going to sleep there is something I must check.

"Status"

===Status===

Name: Lucas DarkHeart

Rank: F+

Strength: F+

Agility: F+

Stamina: G+

Intelligence: E-

Mana Capacity: F+

Luck: E+

Charm: D

Potential : [ Limtless ] ( New)

--] Profession :

[Swordsmanship lvl.2].

--] Martial art :

[Movement Art: Stellar Stride Grade 3]

[Sword art: Celestial Parry:- Gread 3]

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Huh, finally it shows back when I checked the status it did not show anything about [ potential]. But it did Now.

'Limitless' means now it's all up to me how far I want to reach, before getting my hand on [ Luminar crystal piece ] I had the potential of B rank but know I can even surpass the SSS+ rank.

I did feel sorry for the protagonist but hey I already gave him a system and I'm sure that right now he is at least [ E+] and with the help of the system he is doing fine..... Right?

Well, I will think about this another time. For now, I will sleep right now, Tomorrow is a big day for me.

I closed the status window with a contented sigh, and I drifted off to sleep, eager to embrace the unknown journey that lay ahead.